ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) —This Saturday was the last day of the Black Arts and Cultural Festival in Albany. While Friday night focused on gospel music, Saturday's spotlight was all about health and wellness in the Black community. Many activities at this event showcased how fitness and culture can be blended together to make your health and wellness journey more enjoyable for you!
The event was held at the Empire State Plaza! Many activities for the community were provided such as a quick fitness lesson with host and owner of DNA Bodyworx Ana Shaello, trap yoga, line dancing, double-dutch, and zumba. Organizers are using movement to promote health and wellness in the community.
“Our tagline says “IN-U” so fitness starts from within and it comes without. So to be able to host something like that and be able to spread the message is at the baseline of what DNA Bodyworx is all about,” said Ana Shaello.
According to Shaello, a lot of people fall victim to a health risk, due to a lack of movement.
"Diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol most of the time are a result, not just of DNA or heredity, but a lack of movement," said Shaello. "If we just got outside and moved, we could probably obliterate some of those things.”
One organization, Embrace and Empower, was offering mentorship and educational resources aimed at underrepresented communities. Executive Director and cancer survivor Natale Monroe said there’s still a lack of support when it comes to their health.
“I reached out to some people and just kind of asked them about their experiences as well and really found that there was a lack of that mentorship and one on one support, especially for those going through cancer from underrepresented groups. That's what prompted me to start embracing and empowering,” said Monroe.
Many of those fun activities at Saturday's event were able to keep the body moving and the mind at ease. News 10's Tyanna Xavier had to give double-dutch a try as well, just to test the waters!
Staying healthy doesn’t need to be hard, especially when the whole community comes together to make wellness fun!
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